Rear-end crashes are among the most common types of car accidents in Virginia, yet the injuries they cause are anything but minor. Even at low speeds, the force of impact can jolt the body forward and backward with significant pressure, leading to serious injuries that may require extensive medical treatment.
If you were hurt in a crash, the car accident attorneys at Coletrane & Messersmith in Newport News can help you understand your legal rights and pursue compensation for your injuries. One of our experienced personal injury attorneys can evaluate your claim, deal with insurance companies, and fight for the full compensation you deserve while you focus on recovery.
Typical Causes: Why These Injuries Happen
Rear-end collision injuries occur because of the sudden acceleration and deceleration forces placed on the body. When one vehicle strikes another from behind, occupants are thrown forward and then snapped backward in a split second. This motion strains muscles, ligaments, joints, and the spine.
Common causes of rear-end crashes include:
- Distracted driving, including texting or using a phone
- Tailgating or following too closely
- Speeding
- Sudden stops in heavy traffic
- Driving under the influence
- Poor weather or road conditions
Even when vehicles show minimal damage, occupants can suffer serious injuries from a rear-end collision due to the invisible forces involved.
1. Whiplash: The Hallmark of Rear-End Crashes
Whiplash is one of the most recognized rear-end collision injuries. It occurs when the neck is forcefully whipped back and forth, straining soft tissues such as muscles, ligaments, and tendons.
Symptoms may include:
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Headaches
- Reduced range of motion
- Shoulder or upper back pain
While some cases resolve within weeks, others can lead to chronic pain that interferes with daily life.
2. Herniated Discs: Displacement of Spinal Cushions Causing Nerve Pain
The spine is made up of vertebrae separated by discs that act as cushions. The impact of a rear-end crash can cause these discs to bulge or rupture, pressing on nearby nerves.
Warning signs include:
- Radiating pain down the arms or legs
- Numbness or tingling
- Muscle weakness
Herniated discs can require physical therapy, injections, or even surgery in severe cases.
3. Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Concussions from Head Impact
A traumatic brain injury may occur if the head strikes the steering wheel, window, or headrest. Even without a direct blow, the brain can be injured by the force of rapid movement.
Symptoms of a concussion or more severe TBI may include:
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Memory loss
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Persistent headaches
Brain injuries can have long-term cognitive and emotional consequences, making prompt medical attention critical.
4. Back Strains and Sprains: Damage to the Lumbar Region
Lower back injuries are common injuries from a rear end collision. The lumbar spine absorbs much of the crash force, leading to muscle strains or ligament sprains.
These injuries can cause:
- Lower back pain
- Muscle spasms
- Difficulty standing or walking
Chronic back problems may develop if the injury is not properly treated.
5. Seatbelt Injuries: Bruising or Fractured Ribs
Seatbelts save lives, but the restraining force can cause injuries in a collision. Victims may experience bruising across the chest or abdomen, and in some cases, fractured ribs.
Although these injuries are often less severe than what could occur without a seatbelt, they can still require medical treatment and time off work.
6. Airbag Injuries: Facial Lacerations or Chemical Burns
Airbags deploy rapidly during a crash, sometimes causing:
- Facial cuts
- Burns from chemicals used in deployment
- Eye injuries
While airbags significantly reduce the risk of severe head trauma, the force of deployment can result in additional injuries.
7. Wrist and Arm Fractures: Bracing for Impact
Drivers often instinctively brace themselves against the steering wheel. This reaction can lead to fractures in the wrists, hands, or arms when the vehicle is struck from behind.
These fractures may require casting, surgery, and rehabilitation.
8. Knee Injuries: Dashboard Impact
Knee injuries occur when the knees hit the dashboard or lower console during impact. This can result in ligament tears, dislocations, or fractures.
Severe knee injuries may limit mobility and require long-term physical therapy or surgical intervention.
9. Internal Bleeding: Silent but Deadly Damage
Not all injuries are visible. Internal bleeding can occur when organs are damaged by the force of the crash.
Symptoms may include:
- Abdominal pain
- Deep bruising
- Dizziness or fainting
- Low blood pressure
Internal injuries are medical emergencies and require immediate attention.
10. PTSD and Emotional Distress: The Mental Toll
The psychological effects of a crash are often overlooked. Many victims experience post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, or depression after a violent collision.
Symptoms can include:
- Flashbacks
- Nightmares
- Avoidance of driving
- Irritability
Emotional distress is a legitimate component of injuries from rear end collision accidents and may be included in a compensation claim.
Warning Signs You Should Never Ignore
After a rear-end accident, some symptoms may not appear immediately. Seek medical care if you experience:
- Severe or worsening headaches
- Numbness or weakness in limbs
- Loss of consciousness
- Persistent neck or back pain
- Changes in vision or speech
- Abdominal swelling or pain
Ignoring these signs can lead to complications and may also hurt your legal claim.
What to Do After a Rear-End Accident in Newport News
If you are involved in a crash in Newport News, take these steps to protect your health and your legal rights:
- Call 911 and report the accident.
- Seek immediate medical attention, even if you feel fine.
- Document the scene with photos and gather witness information.
- Avoid admitting fault or giving recorded statements to insurance companies without legal advice.
- Contact an experienced car accident attorney.
Working with Coletrane & Messersmith, we can help ensure your injuries from a rear-end collision are properly documented and valued.
How a Lawyer Can Help You Secure Compensation
At Coletrane & Messersmith, we know that insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, especially when rear end collision injuries are labeled as minor soft tissue damage. From our experience representing injured clients in Newport News, we understand how quickly a so-called minor injury can develop into chronic pain, missed work, and mounting medical bills. Our job is to step in immediately, protect your rights, and position your case for the strongest possible financial recovery.
We carefully calculate the true value of your claim. That includes more than just your current medical expenses. We evaluate:
- Emergency room and hospital bills
- Ongoing medical treatment and rehabilitation
- Future medical needs related to rear end collision injuries
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and trauma
When you hire our firm, we take a proactive and thorough approach to every case. We begin by conducting a detailed investigation into how the crash occurred, gathering police reports, witness statements, photographs, and, when necessary, accident reconstruction evidence. We work closely with your doctors and, if needed, medical specialists to fully document the extent of your injuries from a rear-end collision and understand your long term prognosis.
Your Advocate After a Collision in Newport News
We prepare every case as if it may go to trial, which strengthens our negotiating position with insurance companies. While many claims are resolved through settlement, we are always prepared to take your case to court if that is what it takes to pursue full and fair compensation.
Our goal is simple. We want to remove the legal burden from your shoulders so you can focus on healing. From the first consultation through the final resolution of your case, we stand by your side, advocate for your interests, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Rear-end collision injuries can disrupt every aspect of your life. You do not have to navigate the legal process alone. Contact us today at (757) 223-4455 to schedule your free, confidential consultation and learn how the firm can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
